Who these rounds invite
Trade occupation rounds invite candidates with recent work experience in the trades listed by IRCC for each version of the category. Being above a cut-off only matters if you are eligible for the round.
Requirement in 2026: At least 12 months of full-time work experience (or the same amount part-time) in the last 3 years, in Canada or abroad, in one of the listed occupations. The months do not need to be continuous. The category covers 25 occupations; see the list with NOC codes on the Express Entry categories page.
IRCC has used 3 names for these rounds over time: Trades Occupations, 2026-Version 3; Trade occupations (Version 2); Trade occupations (Version 1). We group them here so the trend can be compared.
Check your own score with the CRS calculator, which compares it with every category's cut-offs of the last 12 months. Other categories: PNP, CEC, French, Physicians, Healthcare, STEM, Transport, Agriculture, Senior managers, General. All rounds together are on the Express Entry draws page.